Of the three alpine mountain ranges in Japan, the Central Alps are the smallest and least crowded. The 65km long range divides the Ina Valley to the east from the Kiso Valley to the west. Mount Kiso-Komagatake is the highest peak at 2,956m. There’s a shrine on the summit of the mountain which has drawn pilgrims for several centuries. The Senjojiki Cirque is a bowl-shaped depression on the Ina Valley side of the mountain. Its name means the cirque of a thousand tatami mats, in reference to its size. The Komagane Ropeway takes customers all the way up to the bottom of the cirque at 2,612m, which is the highest ropeway in Japan. From there it is a 4-hour, 4km round trip to Mount Kiso Komagatake. One of the highlights of the hike is the several varieties of alpine flowers that bloom in the Senjojiki Cirque.

What follows is a description of the standard, default plan for a guided trip on the Central Alps. Please be aware that when it comes to alpine mountains there are various factors in play that could prevent the tour from taking place as described. Also please note that this is a private tour, so please let us know your preferences and we can customize your trip to fit your needs.

This tour starts from Komagane Station. If this isn’t convenient for you we can customize the plan to fit your needs. A professionally qualified mountain guide will take you to Komagane Ropeway (either by bus or by private vehicle) and from there you will ascend the mountain. As the ropeway climbs the steep slopes, crystal blue mountain streams, and waterfalls make for breathtaking views! When you arrive at the base of the Senjojiki Cirque the hike begins. Heading around Kengamine Pond, you can enjoy alpine flowers, and views of the rugged, craggy ridgeline of Mount Hoken above, and broad sweeping views of the fertile Ina Valley beneath. From there you’ll climb the slopes of the cirque (equipped with stairs and rails) to the ridgeline of the Central Alps at a point called Jodo Nokkoshi. From there you’ll traverse the ridgeline passing over Mount Nakadake (2,925m) before arriving at the summit and goal of Mount Kiso-Komagatake. From there you’ll turn back and come down the mountain again. After a hike in the Central Alps, a stay in a ryokan of the local hot spring area of Hayataro Onsen is recommended!

If this hike seems either too long or too short for your needs/physical level, please let us know when you contact us. We are happy to customize the trip to fit you and this trip can quite easily be made longer or shorter accordingly.

During the trip hot drinks, and snacks will be provided.